This laparoscopy after-care information is for Day Surgery Unit patients and Alex ward patients.
Driving
- Do not drive for 24 hours after a general anaesthetic.
- Do not drive if your pain relief is making you sleepy.
After the operation
You can expect the following after your operation.
Pain
When you awake from your anaesthetic, you are likely to experience some tummy pain. This will settle over the next 3 to 4 days.
Patients often experience pain in their shoulders and under their ribs. This is a side-effect of the small amount of air that we pump into your abdomen during your operation. This pain will gradually disappear over the next 2 to 4 days.
We advise you to take over-the-counter pain medicine (such as paracetamol), as needed.
Recovery at home
When you get home, follow this advice.
- You can eat and drink as usual, but do not drink alcohol for the first 24 hours.
- You can take a shower 24 hours after your operation, but do not take a bath for 14 days. This is so you avoid soaking the wound.
- If we do not remove your wound dressing before you leave, you can do this at home. Do this 24 hours after your operation.
- You can leave your scar exposed or cover it with a small dressing (for example Mepore, Tegaderm or Opsite).
- Do not use talcum powder or antiseptic near your scar.
- Most patients return to work approximately 2 weeks after their operation. We will advise you on this.
Results and follow-up
We will let you know the results of your operation and explain them to you, before you leave.
We will also advise whether you will need further treatment or Outpatient follow-up. If needed, we will send you the appointment information for this.
Contact information
Day Surgery Unit patients, call the DSU advice line
Monday to Friday 8am to 7pm
(Out of hours and weekends, calls divert to Alex ward)
Alex ward patients, call Alex ward
All patients, call 111 for the NHS emergency and urgent care service
You can also contact your GP or come to the Kingston Hospital Emergency Department (A&E)